Media release
03 September 2009

Appeal for information after $12,000 liquor robbery

The makers of a alcoholic spirit are appealing for information on a $12,000 theft of the product just days before its launch.

More than 20 cases of ZUMWOHL were stolen in a raid on a bonded warehouse in Hutt Valley on Monday night.

The theft of 240 bottles comes just two days before ZUMWOHL, created by the original producer of 42 Below, is officially launched in bars in Wellington and across the country.

Matthew Savage, director of Aotearoa Distillers, said: “We are deeply disappointed at the robbery particularly after investing a lot of time and effort into this fledgling brand. We urge anyone with any information on the robbery to contact us or the police immediately.

“Although this theft will not affect production of ZUMWOHL, it still represents a setback as we are launching the spirit in the coming days.”

The company is unwilling to reveal the exact location of the bonded warehouse for fear of the premises being targeted again by thieves.

ZUMWOHL shot drink is the brainchild of Ulf Führer and Anthony Green, the original producer of 42 Below Vodka, consistently rated among the top three vodkas in the world.

Aotearoa Distillers, led by directors Matthew Savage, David Alsop and Mieke Wensvoort, is producing and bottling the new spirit, which will hit the shelves of some of the country’s leading bars this month.

ENDS

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